Vegetation: 1 definition

Introduction:

Vegetation means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

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In Hinduism

Shaktism (Shakta philosophy)

[«previous next»] — Vegetation in Shaktism glossary
Source: Google Books: Manthanabhairavatantram

Vegetation association with Spirits.—The association of the feminine with vegetation and growth is well known throughout the world and is especially well represented in India. An image found on a seal at Mohenjendaro (2500 BCE) of a tree growing up out of the womb of a woman with her legs spread open as if in the act of giving birth, testify to the antiquity of this association. Trees, forests and groves close to human settlements have been venerated throughout the subcontinent up to the present day as the abodes of deities and a range of supernatural beings. [...] These tree and vegetation spirits who accepted offerings of liquor along with animal and even human sacrifices, were amongst the precursors of the numerous Yoginīs, Bhairavas and Vīras who populate the Bhairava and Kaula Tantras. These too are closely associated with trees to which they are commonly related. Yakṣas still form a part of the goddess’s entourage and Kubjikā herself is sometimes identified as one.

Note: In the Kaula and related Tantras, such beings came to be identified with Yoginīs and so the trees they inhabited as Yakṣinīs came to be venerated as Kula trees (kulavṛkṣa) in which Yoginīs reside.

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context information

Shakta (शाक्त, śākta) or Shaktism (śāktism) represents a tradition of Hinduism where the Goddess (Devi) is revered and worshipped. Shakta literature includes a range of scriptures, including various Agamas and Tantras, although its roots may be traced back to the Vedas.

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